The Snow-Table

Snow has provided a wonderful catalyst for discovery and exploration.  The children were thrilled to see the SNOW in our water table.   At first they giggled and then the children got down to making observations and predicting what might happen to the snow.  Lyla announced that she was making a crystal factory because she could see crystals in the snow.  Zane mentioned that the ice that was forming in the table was not smooth but had bumps.  They built snow-cones, snow-castles and explored how the snow changed while it was in the table.

This very social learning opportunity allowed the children to think about big questions and discuss a new experience.  They determined theories about why things happen.  It is not important that the children are right.  This learning is more about how they are using their understanding of how the world works and applying their thinking to a new situation.  Their ability to analyze and put ideas together is evidence of what they know about their world and gives us insight in order to plan next steps for learning and support their interests.

Cameron notes: "The snow is too cold.  We need mittens!"

Wow!  Snow in the classroom?

Our predictions

Michael says: "Look my fingers are getting wrinkley, just like when I'm in the bath-tub!"

Evan predicts: "I think these gloves are water-proof."  

Audrey giggles: "Look the snow is sticking together now!"